I started writing a whole very specific list that you might get if you wrote this question to a sex advice newspaper article explaining about different kinds of sex toys and stuff, but then I realize this is really not why I'm in Yedda and deleted the whole thing.
Instead I'm going to share my own idea and experience with sex toys.
Whatt is it that we look for when we use a sex toy - I guess it's the adventure in trying something new, as well as a sensation that's different then "the human touch" There are different sensation that can enhance or delay orgasm (such as vibrations \ pain \ hot-cold \ different flavors and so on).
Right now, though I sexually play with lots of stuff, non of it was meant to be a "sex toy". They were not bought in a sex store and usualy are not made of silicon like most sex toys are. personally, I'm not a huge fan of plsatic and the way it feels on skin.
Some of the effects of sex toys can be copied by toys and objects that was meant for different use. The best vibrators I ever came across are actually electric tooth brushes and the back of a motorcycle (for a really really gentle, almost torture feel, try the one called "The humming bird" for a stronger stimulation, almost any other one will do). I play a lot with a bunch of metal clay scalpturing tools I got at an art store (they look like something a dentist might use). I have some ropes For bondage that I got at a hard wear store (much better texture and strength and of course - money value then one you would get in a sex store), cloth pin makes perfect nipple clamps, I have a dog collar that was bought in a pet store, and so on.
Sometime just touching the other person while wearing gloves instead of bare hands can be a cool veriation.
Also, try organic rather then plastic - the best dildos I ever used was a vegetable, something about the organic texture and the way it takes to the body heat is a lot more interesting then plastic (and grocery shopping becomes a lot more fun).
Some people have really good reaction to ice - personally I don't like it.
The only sex toy that's actually meant for sex that I have is this it's great if you are interested in electricity. That's not something I would go homemade about cause it would be too risky.
I suggest you two go shopping together and see what you might find interesting. The cool thing about shopping for home made sex toys is that most items are cheap and if you don't like something then you just don't have to use it.
Important advice for any sex toy (homeamde or store bought):
always wash it well before use and after use. Especailly items that are going to penetrate the body.
Keep and open mind and don't be afraid to try new things, sometime it takes a few tries to get used and really love something you didn't find attractive of fun at first.
Be attentive to your partner, sometimes even though you might be totally into something they really don't get it and dont' want to take part - that's OK.
This is not about toys - this is about you two and finding new ways to stimulate each other and have fun - don't get caught up in technology and veriation to forget the person you are with.
Have fun! Let me know how it's going